Body Fat Measurement Device Trunk Width Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current body fat measurement devices using the body impedance technique struggle to accurately measure visceral and subcutaneous fat mass in a household setting, requiring complex operations, large space for storage, and often necessitate assistance for accurate measurements.
Innovation Solution
A body fat measurement device with multiple electrodes, a body impedance measurement unit, trunk area width detection, and a platform unit that allows for easy, self-administered measurements from a standing or seated position, featuring a trunk area width measurement unit that can be stored compactly by attaching to the platform unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If X-ray CT or MRI is used to measure visceral fat mass, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical imaging systems (X-ray CT, MRI) with a simpler electrical measurement system based on body impedance. The device uses electrodes to measure electrical impedance across the trunk area, and computational algorithms to estimate visceral fat mass from these electrical measurements combined with trunk dimensions, thereby achieving acceptable measurement precision without requiring complex imaging equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a simplified measurement model that copies the essential measurement function of CT/MRI but implements it through electrical impedance rather than physical imaging. By measuring electrical properties and trunk geometry, the system reproduces the ability to estimate visceral fat mass without requiring actual tomographic imaging, thus reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement capability.
2Measurement precision
If actual measurements of trunk area width and depth are taken during measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service measurement capabilities where the device automatically measures trunk area width and depth without requiring manual measurement by the user. The measurement subject simply stands on the platform and the device automatically detects trunk dimensions through sensors, eliminating the need for the user to manually measure their own body parts while still obtaining precise measurements for accurate body fat calculation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces automated sensing systems as intermediaries between the measurement subject and the calculation process. Instead of requiring direct manual measurement by the user, electronic sensors and detection units serve as intermediaries that automatically capture trunk dimension data, thereby maintaining measurement precision while significantly improving ease of operation.
3Measurement precision
If the trunk area width measurement unit is separate from the platform unit, then measurement precision is improved, but storage space requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the previously separate trunk area width measurement unit with the platform unit into an integrated system. The measurement unit is now incorporated as part of the platform structure, allowing the device to maintain precise trunk width measurement capabilities while reducing the overall footprint and storage space requirements by eliminating the need for separate measurement equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional platform unit that simultaneously serves as the measurement platform for body impedance measurement and as the integrated trunk width measurement device. By combining multiple measurement functions into a single universal unit, the system achieves precise trunk area width measurement without requiring additional dedicated equipment, thereby reducing storage space requirements.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables accurate and easy measurement of body fat mass, including visceral and subcutaneous fat, in a household setting without the need for assistance, while minimizing storage space through a compact design.
Implementation Method 1
a body impedance measurement unit configured to measure a body impedance of the measurement subject using the multiple electrodes
Implementation Method 2
a trunk area width detection unit configured to measure a trunk area width of the measurement subject
Data Source
AI summary
A body fat measurement device includes multiple electrodes, a trunk area width detection unit for measuring a trunk area width and a trunk area depth, a body impedance measurement unit that measures a body impedance of a body using the multiple electrodes, and a body fat mass calculation unit that calculates a body fat mass based on the measured body impedance and the trunk area width and trunk area depth. A frame-shaped fitting unit in which the trunk area width detection unit is provided and that is capable of being disposed so as to surround a measurement subject's trunk area can be mounted on and removed from a platform unit in which foot electrodes are provided, and is stored within the platform unit during a stored state.